A flood watch has been issued for the Bulkley River and Tributaries around Smithers and Houston.
The river forecast centre has also issued high streamflow advisories in the Northwest for the Lakes region, and tributaries around Burns Lake, Fraser Lake, Fort St. James, and surrounding areas.
An extended period of high pressure is bringing seasonally hot temperatures across British Columbia.
Snowmelt rates observed at Automated Snow Weather Stations in the region have been in the 15 to 30 mm range over the past few days and are expected to accelerate and remain elevated through mid-week.
Rises in rivers throughout the region are forecast to reach the 2-year to 5-year flow, or higher, through today and tomorrow.
Low-lying flooding and bank erosion are possible at these levels.
The Bulkley River near Smithers gauge is currently at a water level of nearly 5.0m (800 m3/s) and expected to continue to rise through today and tomorrow. Daily maximum temperatures through the northern interior are expected to remain in the low-to-mid 20°C through Thursday. Overnight low temperatures are expected to remain above freezing. Snowmelt rates observed at Automated Snow Weather Stations in the region have been in the 15 to 30 mm range over the past few days and are expected to accelerate and remain elevated through mid-week.
Flows may exceed flood stage on the Bulkley River, and other headwater areas.
Fast-flowing rivers pose increased risk to safety.
Stay away from rivers and river banks, which can be unstable.
Never drive through floodwaters, as unseen hazards and current can be life threatening.